Eskom is ready to resume with operations to replace failed transformers in Ivory Park due to illegal connections and meter bypasses resulting in network overloading.
Eskom met with Ivory Park councillors, officials from the City of Joburg and the taxi association on 1 August in an effort to enable Eskom technicians to work safely in the area. However, the meeting collapsed as there was no agreement reached on the process to engage the community.
“We would like to urge the community of Ivory Park to collaborate with Eskom to adequately deal with this matter by allowing us access to the area so that we can conduct audits, remove illegal connections, disconnect bypassed meters and issue fines for the contraventions,” said Motlhabane Ramashi, operations and senior manager in the Gauteng Operating Unit.
“The intention for the preceding activities is to avoid the repeat of damage to the equipment and electricity network.”
Eskom has a schedule and a plan in place that outlines how and when the replacements of failed equipment will be executed. “The said process is consistent with our operations, applies throughout Eskom Gauteng and will not be deviated from,” said Ramashi.
Eskom is not in a position to continuously replace failed mini-substations and pole-mounted transformers in areas where the residents are not paying for their electricity. Non-payment of electricity does not only impact on the security of supply for paying customers but also contributes to increased energy and revenue losses coupled with increased operational costs. This is not sustainable and not in line with Eskom’s revenue management practices. The non-payment further frustrates efforts to improve on Eskom’s financial and operational objectives.
The community of Ivory Park, surrounding areas, and others in similar conditions in Gauteng are urged to collaborate with Eskom to ensure supply is restored and paid for.
“Eskom employee safety will take priority at all times and the community can assist by submitting a written commitment to Eskom guaranteeing its staff safety and non-interference while they perform their work, “concluded Ramashi.
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